“Why am I not riding better when I know better?”

You’ve practiced, you’ve studied, you’ve got the skills. But when it comes to show day, nerves take over, and suddenly you’re watching yourself make mistakes that leave you baffled.

I’ve seen it happen with so many riders, and today, we’re breaking down the exact steps to take when you find yourself in that frustrating loop.

In this episode, I’m sharing a story of my client who struggled with 5-point penalties in the ring—and no, it wasn’t because she didn’t know how to execute a lead change.

It was all about what was happening between her ears. We’re diving into how to shift your mindset, calm your nerves, and mentally rehearse for success in the show pen.

If you or someone you know has benefited from this episode, be sure to tag me @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram and share this episode with your community! I’m curious to hear all about your experience. Also, be sure to leave a review on iTunes to help others discover the show.

In This Episode You Will Learn:

• How I helped my client boost her scores from 65 to 70 by eliminating 5-point penalties caused by her horse kicking out
• Why “knowing better” doesn’t always translate to riding better—and the exact steps to bridge that gap
• How to turn show-pen nerves into unshakable confidence using powerful mental rehearsal techniques
• Proven strategies to conquer limiting beliefs and show nerves that sabotage your rides
• How to stay calm, focused, and composed even when the pressure is on
• The surprising mental block that may be holding you back from performing at your highest potential

Questions I Answer:

• Why do I keep repeating the same mistakes, no matter how much I practice?
• What’s the secret to performing well under pressure, even when I know how to ride?
• How can mental rehearsal sharpen my confidence and focus in the show pen?
• Why am I making mistakes even when I know exactly what to do?
• How can I ease competition pressure and ride with confidence and control?
• What can I do to stop overcueing and avoid costly penalties during a run?
• What mental tools can help me calm my nerves before stepping into the show pen?

🚀 How can I help you RIGHT NOW? 🚀

• 🎯 5 Days to Confident Competitor. Stop ‘show nerves’ and saddle up with swagger! https://nicoleburnettcoaching.thrivecart.com/5-days-to-confident-competitor/ 
• 🎯 Resilient Reiner Academy → The confidence to win so you ride like you belong. Sign up here!  https://www.nicoleburnettcoaching.com/resilientreineracademy 
• 🎯 Mental Gym for Equestrians → Ride like a pro https://mentalgymforequestrians.com/ 
• 🎯 Get Free Weekly Mental Coaching Tips → Join my email list! Subscribe here